Let’s Talk About Sweat – Armpit Sweat To Be Precise.

Did you know that deodorants and antiperspirants are quite possibly some of the most toxic things you can put on your body?

The most common chemical ingredients found in deodorants and antiperspirants are:

Parabens

Phthalates

Triclosan

Propylene Glycol and

Aluminum

How do these chemicals affect the human body?

“Parabens (the most common are methylparaben, propylparaben, ethylparaben, and butylparaben) are chemicals commonly used as preservatives in many cosmetic products, including makeup, moisturizers, hair care products, and shaving creams/gels (most major brands of antiperspirants and deodorants don’t contain parabens). Parabens can penetrate the skin and act like a very weak estrogen in the body — potentially turning on the growth of hormone-receptor-positive breast cancers. Parabens have been found in breast tissue and breast cancers, but this really doesn’t mean much. Parabens have been found in many other tissues because of their wide use.”

Breastcancer.org

“Phthalates are commonly used to hold color and reduce brittleness in nail polish and hair spray. They’re also a component of many personal care and cleaning product fragrances. Phthalates are a hormone disruptor. Phthalates don’t act exactly like estrogen, but they can disrupt the balance of other hormones that interact with estrogen, including testosterone.”

Breastcancer.org

“Triclosan, an antibacterial and antimicrobial chemical, has been used in personal care products and as a pesticide for decades. Scientists in recent years have stepped up their research into its potential health risks, says University of Maine biochemist Julie Gosse, PhD. Gosse has published studies on triclosan’s effects on mitochondria — cell components that play a role in human reproduction and other functions. “We know that it harms mitochondria, and we know that mitochondria function is essential for reproduction, and we know that triclosan affects reproduction,” she says.”

WebMd on research by biochemist Julie Gosse

“Dermal exposure to propylene glycol, through cosmetics or drugs, or inhalation of synthetic smoke or mist, may be more frequently associated with reported reactions.”

Agency for a Toxic Substances and Disease Registry

“Because estrogen can promote the growth of breast cancer cells, some scientists have suggested that the aluminum-based compounds in antiperspirants may contribute to the development of breast cancer. In addition, it has been suggested that aluminum may have direct activity in breast tissue. Aug 9, 2016”

National Cancer Institute (.gov)

Putting a layer of toxic chemicals on your skin can’t possibly be good for you. When you read about the negative effects chemicals have on your health, does that make you feel comfortable putting them on your skin?